When there's a natural disaster or a situation where your personal survival is in danger, you need to have the minimal tools on hand to make it through at least a few days until help arrives or the situation is over. After you gather the items that you need for the kit, you can put them in a small plastic box that has a lid so that they are securely in one place. You can get the items that are needed for the kit at most retail stores and even at discount stores so that you don't spend a lot of money.

Hydration

The first thing that you want to have in your kit or in the area where you're going to take shelter is water. It's ideal to have at least one gallon a day for each person to last for three days. This would mean that you would need three gallons for each person who is planning on using the kit or who is going to stay in the shelter.

Clothing and Blankets

You want to have at least two or three additional clothing items aside from what you wear when the disaster strikes. The clothing should be comfortable and easy to get on and off. You also want to have a jacket or coat depending on the weather and even a pair of sturdy work boots in case you have to walk across areas that have limbs on the ground or that are covered in water. Companies like Bargain Center often have boots and other clothing supplies in all sizes as well as blankets so that you can stay warm.

Supplying Nutrients

When packing your kit, include enough food so that each person has at least 2,000 calories available each day. You might not eat that much, but it would be available in case someone needs more energy or you need to stay in the shelter for a longer time. Foods that don't need to be heated are suggested along with protein bars and trail mix. Include baby formula that can be mixed with water as well.

Hygiene

You might not be able to take a shower for a few days, so you need to have supplies that can keep you clean. Dry shampoo, baby wipes and toilet paper can be packed as these will give you at least some way to keep dirt off the body. A toothbrush and toothpaste also needs to be packed along with diapers for babies or even toddlers.

When you pack a survival kit, think about the bare necessities instead of the luxury items. Try not to over-pack your kit as this will make it hard to move to your shelter. Update your kit as needed, especially if there are more people who plan to join you during the event.


About the Author: Lizzie Weakley is a freelance writer from Columbus, Ohio. She went to college at The Ohio State University where she studied communications. In her free time, she enjoys the outdoors and long walks in the park with her 3-year-old husky Snowball. Twitter: @LizzieWeakley Facebook: facebook.com/lizzie.weakley